DONALD B. APPLEGARTH CPA

Don has accumulated more than 30 years of public accounting experience. While at Schneider Downs and at a national accounting firm, he has served companies in a variety of industries, including, but not limited to, retail, manufacturing, distribution, real estate, contracting, natural resources and not-for-profit organizations. He also  serves a key role in the firm’s quality control and risk assessment process.

Don audits and consults for SEC clients, several of which have international operations. He has brought innovative and timely solutions in responding to complex and diverse client needs. In addition, he has presented various cost-saving strategies and process improvement recommendations for his clients. Don has led the firm’s efforts in monitoring changes brought about by IFRS revenue recognition, and leases and advising on effective implementation strategies to maximize efficiencies and optimize value.

Don has also provided valuable transaction assistance services in the form of deal structuring and due diligence that has resulted in maximized return to his clients.

Education

B.S. – Accounting, Wheeling Jesuit College

Professional and Community Involvement

Member—American and Pennsylvania Institutes of Certified Public Accountants and the Institute of Internal Auditors

Member—Schneider Downs SEC Practice Group

Director of Technical Matters—Schneider Downs Assurance Technical Committee

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Do you have a hobby or personal passion?
Several years ago, I gave up chasing the little white ball around the golf course and was introduced to shot-gunning. It became a family sport and I now enjoy shooting clays, skeet and hunting over my two bird dogs, Tango and Diesel.

Who was your role model?
I really don’t have a role model. Nobody is perfect…rather, I look for the best in people and try to live my life by demonstrating those same attributes.

What was your childhood dream?
As a child, I figured I’d join the Marines – then I realized there was too much cardio involved!

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your college self?
You can’t do it all on your own. Most situations involve being part of a team. Know your strengths, respect the opinion of others and always insist on doing the right thing.

What is the best or most interesting thing about your career?
At the beginning of my career, I learned a lot about public accounting while at a national firm. I learned more about the business and the value of good relationships when I came to Schneider Downs.

Do you have a “motto?”
The only person you need to be better than is the person you were yesterday.

When you have an hour of free time, what do you like to do?
I have two bird dogs that I love to run and point – so I take them to the fields. There is very little I find more satisfying than watching them work.

Do you have advice for young professionals?
True wealth happens with persistence, perseverance and the drive to be the best at what you do.

Our Thoughts On

FEATURED

Big Problem: Time Consuming Billing Process.


Big Thinking: Utilize Robotic Process Automation To Reduce Manual Input Time By 75%.

Shareholder PATRICK ARMKNECHT has been with Schneider Downs for over 21 years. His expertise lies mainly in corporate accounting, project management and software implementation.
One of Patrick’s clients was looking for more efficient back-office operations. Patrick’s team recommended the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technology to help address their billing problem. After implementing RPA technology, manual time spent completing the monthly billing process was reduced by 75%. “Although the immediate need was focused on the monthly billing process, we recognized that investment in RPA would also enable the client to automate a number of processes throughout their organization,” Patrick said. “They have already implemented five other automation projects in different parts of the organization and have a list of more than 20 other processes they intend to automate in the near future.” Schneider Downs provides Big Thinking and Personal focus in delivering a variety of services for large and small businesses, both publicly and privately held, as well as nonprofit organizations, government entities and more. Through our commitment to thought leadership and knowledge management, we deliver the solutions our clients need with a personal commitment to service.

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